For iOS, the operating system behind iPhones, Apple typically favors gradual design evolution. iOS 16’s customizable Lock Screen was the most recent major update.
Unconfirmed rumors suggest that iOS 18 may introduce a more substantial visual reboot, inspired by visionOS, the operating system that powers Apple’s Vision Pro headset.
As reported by The Verifier, Apple may incorporate visionOS’ visual elements into iOS 18. While similar to iOS, visionOS features rounded shapes, shadows, and overlapping windows that create a sense of depth.
According to the report, the updated Apple TV app in tvOS 17.2 is an early example of this transition, comparing its new floating sidebar design to visionOS app layouts.
This rumor is particularly speculative since The Verifier has a mixed record when it comes to being accurate with its predictions.
Additionally, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman previously reported that iOS 18 will feature “ambitious changes,” although its exact nature remains unclear.
It has been Apple’s tradition to maintain distinct design languages for each of its operating systems. Because watchOS and macOS already have rounded icons and shadows, iOS has never fully adopted them.
While some of these rumors could be true, tvOS’s design could be more inspired by visionOS. With its larger screen format, Apple TV’s visual layouts can have greater depth and layering, which are more characteristic of VisionOS.
Besides the talk about design changes, Apple iOS 18 is rumored to bring AI features to iPhones. Other Android brands are gradually following Samsung and Google in this area. There is no way Apple would want to fall behind in this race. Any new developments in iOS 18 will be kept in the loop.
